Curing a wooden mate is an essential step to ensure a better taste and longer-lasting gourd. Follow this simple guide to cure your wooden mate with oil and enhance your mate experience
Hello mate enthusiasts!
If you’ve recently acquired a new wooden mate gourd, one of the first things you need to do is cure it. Curing a wooden mate not only helps prevent it from cracking but also enhances the flavor of your mate over time. Today, I’ll guide you through the process of curing your wooden mate with oil, ensuring it’s ready for many delightful mate sessions.
Why Cure a Wooden Mate?
Curing a wooden mate serves several purposes:
- Seals the Wood: Prevents the gourd from absorbing too much water, which can cause it to crack or warp.
- Enhances Flavor: Helps to develop a richer, smoother taste for your mate.
- Prevents Mold: Reduces the risk of mold growth by creating a protective layer inside the gourd.
What You’ll Need
- Your wooden mate gourd
- A neutral oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil, or mineral oil)
- A soft cloth or paper towel
Step-by-Step Guide to Curing Your Wooden Mate with Oil
1. Clean the Gourd
Start by cleaning the inside of your wooden mate gourd with a cloth to take out the dust. Do not use wash it with water!
2. Apply the Oil
Once the gourd is dry, it’s time to apply the oil. Pour a small amount of your chosen oil into the gourd. Using a soft cloth or paper towel, spread the oil evenly on the inside surface of the gourd. Make sure to cover all areas, including the rim.
3. Let It Soak
Allow the oil to soak into the wood for about 24 hours. This step is crucial as it lets the wood absorb the oil, creating a protective barrier.
4. Wipe Off Excess Oil
After 24 hours, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth. Ensure the gourd is not left too oily, as this can affect the taste of your mate.
5. Repeat the Process
For the best results, repeat the oiling process two or three more times. Each time, let the oil soak in for 24 hours before wiping off the excess. This will ensure that the wood is thoroughly saturated and well-protected.
6. Final Drying
After the final oil application and wipe-down, let the gourd sit and dry completely for another 24 hours. Your wooden mate is now cured and ready to use!
Additional Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Even after curing, it’s a good idea to periodically reapply oil to keep the wood in good condition.
- Dry Thoroughly: Always ensure your mate gourd is thoroughly dried after each use to prevent mold growth.
- Avoid Soaking: Do not leave your wooden mate soaking in water for extended periods, as this can damage the wood and never use soap!
Enjoy Your Mate!
Curing your wooden mate with oil is a simple yet effective way to enhance your mate drinking experience. It ensures your gourd is protected, adds to the flavor, and helps it last longer. Now that your mate is cured, prepare your favorite yerba, invite some friends over, and enjoy the rich, smooth taste of your well-cared-for mate.
Happy mate drinking!